Every Sunday, after attending mass at the Santa Rita Church, roughly 40 women, some dressed in pants and sneakers and others wearing skirts but always in solidarity white and carrying gladiolas, slowly walk up Havana’s Fifth Avenue amid shouts of “Libertad!” These are no ordinary women, for they are the “Damas de Blanco,” the “Ladies in White,” founded by the late Castro oppositionist, Laura Pollán (February 13, 1948 – October 14, 2011).

Dining out can be a great way to experience cultures and having a good time, but bringing the flavors home can be a great experience that will impress your friends and family and save you money. When it comes to creating dishes from different regions it is important to plan ahead and look at the ingredients and methods used by the region.